Mueez Ajao
– Morocco edged past Canada to top Group F and reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 36 years.
– The Atlas Lions, whose previous trip to the last 16 came in 1986, finished above 2018 finalists Croatia, while Belgium – ranked second in the world – are out after finishing third in the group.
– A tough test awaits in the next round against the team that finishes second in Group E, which could potentially be Spain or Germany.
Also Read: History-chasing Morocco want ‘no regrets’, says coach Walid
– Morocco went ahead after just four minutes courtesy of a goalkeeping howler from Milan Borjan.
– The Canada keeper sprinted out of his goal but passed the ball straight to Ziyech, who lofted a cool finish into an open net from 30 yards.
– The north African side doubled their advantage through Youssef En-Nesyri’s well-taken goal as he controlled Achraf Hakimi’s superb pass before firing in.
– But sloppy defending gave Canada a route back into the game when West Ham’s Nayef Aguerd stuck a boot out to divert the ball into his own net – the 100th goal scored at this World Cup.
– Knowing if they avoided defeat they would go through, Morocco were happy to sit back and soak up pressure in the second period.
– But Atiba Hutchinson came close with a header that rattled the crossbar and dropped down onto the line as Canada’s campaign ended without a point.
Morocco are into the #FIFAWorldCup knockout stages for only the second time in history! 👏 🇲🇦 @adidasfootball | #Qatar2022
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 1, 2022
🇲🇦🔝 What a moment for @EnMaroc! #FIFAWorldCup | #Qatar2022
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 1, 2022
